Obituary: Reverend Dr. Justin Gilreath
The Buncombe Street Methodist Church community in Greenville, South Carolina, is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Reverend Dr. Justin Gilreath, who passed away by suicide.
Justin was a deeply loved Senior Pastor, a devoted husband to Jenny Horton Gilreath, and a father to two daughters, Meakin and Griffin. His death has left a profound void in the lives of all who knew and loved him.
Justin was born and raised in South Carolina and graduated from Blue Ridge High School. His journey of faith and service began at Clemson University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education.
Driven by his calling to ministry, he pursued theological studies at Duke Divinity School, earning a Master of Divinity degree, and later completed his Doctor of Ministry from Erskine Theological Seminary.
His doctoral work focused on the importance of Christian community and church unity, reflecting his deep commitment to fostering togetherness and understanding within the church.
Justin’s ministerial career began at Piedmont United Methodist Church, where he served as pastor for nine years. His time at Piedmont was marked by his ability to connect with his congregation, combining tradition with innovation to make faith relevant in contemporary life.
This passion and dedication carried over to Buncombe Street Methodist Church, where he served as Associate Pastor for eight years before becoming the Senior Pastor.
As Senior Pastor at Buncombe Street, Justin was a visionary leader whose work revolved around helping people understand the transformative power of the body of Christ.
He was committed to celebrating church traditions while exploring new, culturally relevant ways to engage with the community. His leadership was marked by compassion, creativity, and a tireless drive to nurture a sense of belonging among his congregation.
Justin believed deeply in the significance of Christian fellowship, often emphasizing the role of the church as a place of healing, hope, and love. His messages inspired many, and his leadership helped Buncombe Street grow into a vibrant and unified community of faith.
Beyond his ministerial roles, Justin’s greatest joy was his family. He lived on a farm in Travelers Rest, South Carolina, with his beloved wife, Jenny Horton Gilreath, and their daughters, Meakin and Griffin.
Justin cherished the simple joys of family life, spending quality time with his loved ones in the serene environment of their farm. His love for his family was evident to all who knew him. Justin’s devotion as a husband and father was matched only by his commitment to his faith and community.
Justin’s passing has brought immense grief to those who admired his unwavering faith, kind heart, and selfless service. His work as a pastor touched countless lives, offering guidance and comfort to those in need.
The Buncombe Street Methodist Church family remembers him as a man of great wisdom, humility, and love, whose life was dedicated to helping others. His legacy lives on in the lives of those he inspired and the church community he so dearly loved.
Justin’s passing is a poignant reminder of the silent struggles that many face. His family and church community encourage open conversations about mental health and the importance of seeking help in times of distress.
In honoring his memory, let us carry forward his message of unity, compassion, and love. The family invites friends and loved ones to join in a celebration of Justin’s life at Buncombe Street Methodist Church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to support mental health initiatives and community outreach programs that reflect Justin’s enduring commitment to service. Reverend Dr. Justin Gilreath will be deeply missed but forever remembered as a beacon of light and love in the lives he touched.
